Empire of the Clouds: The Golden Era of Britain's Aircraft

During World War II, Britain was the world's leading aircraft designer and builder, creating world-class aircraft such as the Comet, Vulcan, Hunter, and Lightning. However, Britain lost the plot and today there is no single aircraft manufacturer of any significance in the country. What happened to the great industry of de Havilland or Handley Page, and what was it like to be alive in that post-war moment when innovative new British aircraft made their debut?

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2018
Publisher: Faber & Faber

Britain's aviation industry reached unprecedented heights in 1945, becoming the world's leading designer and builder of aircraft. This remarkable achievement was not just mere rhetoric, as evidenced by the remarkable aircraft that emerged from British workshops. The sleek Comet, the first jet airliner, showcased Britain's technological prowess and set new standards for air travel. The delta-winged Vulcan, an intercontinental bomber with incredible agility, was a symbol of power and versatility. The Hawker Hunter, renowned for its stunning design and unparalleled performance, was the epitome of elegance in the skies. Moreover, the Lightning, capable of reaching astonishing speeds and offering a thrilling flying experience, was considered by its pilots to be even better than sex.

However, the question remains: how did Britain, once the envy of the aviation world, lose its position as a dominant player in the industry? What happened to the renowned aircraft manufacturers such as de Havilland and Handley Page? And what was it like to witness the debut of these innovative new British aircraft during the post-war era, when pilots were revered as rock stars?

The decline of Britain's aviation industry can be attributed to a combination of factors. One significant factor was the loss of government support for the industry, which led to a decline in research and development. Additionally, the rise of cheaper foreign aircraft, particularly from the United States and Japan, made British aircraft less competitive in the global market.

The closure of many British aircraft manufacturers, such as de Havilland and Handley Page, had a profound impact on the industry. These companies were pioneers in their respective fields and had played a crucial role in shaping the aviation industry during the war. Their closure left a void in the British aviation industry, which was difficult to fill.

Despite the challenges faced by the industry, there are still some remnants of Britain's aviation heritage. For example, the iconic Concorde, a supersonic jet that was jointly developed by Britain and France, remains a symbol of British engineering and innovation. However, the Concorde's retirement in 2003 marked the end of an era, and there has been no replacement for it.

In conclusion, Britain's aviation industry once held a prestigious position in the world, but it has faced significant challenges in recent years. The loss of government support, competition from cheaper foreign aircraft, and the closure of key manufacturers have contributed to the decline of the industry. However, there are still some remnants of Britain's aviation heritage, and it is important to recognize the contributions of these companies to the development of aviation.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 183 x 199 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571341481
Edition number: Main